But the linked to subsequent article said that the law had been relaxed and it can be imported now. In addition I thought everyone already knew this. Back before, were restaurants really calling it Kobe?

True Japanese Kobe beef is indeed available in the United States, albeit in tiny quantities. On November 29, 2012, less than 400 pounds of true Kobe beef was exported to the United States. Since then, slightly larger amounts have been exported. See the Kobe Beef Marketing Association web site FAQs for details (at http://www.kobe-niku.jp/english/conte...), or go straight to the page which lists each and every export of Kobe (http://www.kobe-niku.jp/english/conte...); you'll see a few going to the United States.

Having said that, almost every mention of Kobe in the United States does NOT refer to true Kobe beef. It's still a big scam, but worse than ever because you can't say there isn't any Kobe -- just virtually none. I've even seen a menu that says "true Japanese A5 Kobe" where it was actually beef from another prefecture.

This article is nonsensical. What makes "Kobe beef" special is its attributes, which are measured with great precision by labs in Japan. It's possible to buy beef, raised in the U.S., tested and graded to the same high standards by labs in Japan.

I buy "Kobe-style" beef, raised right here in Indiana, DNA tested in Japan, every bit as wonderful as what I ate in steakhouses in Tokyo. You need to know who you're buying from.

<The answer is sadly simplistic: Despite the fact that Kobe Beef, as well as Kobe Meat and Kobe Cattle, are patented terms and/or trademarks in Japan, these are neither recognized nor protected by U.S. law..>